A Study on the Family Experiences and Family Support Needs of Adult Siblings without Disabilities of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

This study aims to explore the family experiences and family support needs of adult siblings without disabilities of individuals with developmental disabilities. For the research, in-depth one-on-one interviews were conducted with six adult siblings without disabilities of individuals with developmental disabilities. The study revealed 159 concepts, 37 subcategories, and 10 main categories regarding the family experiences and support needs of these adult siblings. The main categories were divided into three for the past, four for the present, and three for the future. The past experiences and needs included ‘conflict, tension, and confusion within the family,’ ‘experiences and perceptions related to the sibling with a disability,’ and ‘a young self needing comfort and help.’ The present included ‘being tied to the family,’ ‘a family experiencing joy and sorrow due to issues with the sibling with a disability,’ ‘urgently needed information and support,’ and ‘emotions towards the parents.’ The future included ‘a future more fearful than anticipated,’ ‘my marriage and my sibling,’ and ‘a beloved but burdensome sibling.’ Based on the results, the study discusses and suggests directions for family support in consideration of the family experiences and support needs of adult siblings without disabilities of individuals with developmental disabilities.